If you've been paying any attention to the news recently, you know that the 2016 Presidential Election is now in full swing. Regardless of interest, it's time to get ready for some heated arguments and inescapable TV ads.

If you're a political geek like me, you couldn't be more excited and eager to see what candidates emerge and how these candidates end up interacting with voters. If you have zero interest in politics, this just may be the year that turns around for you.

College students will play a pivotal role in helping elect our new president. With the economy and job sector growing, the demand for college-educated young professionals is at a high. Politicians will play upon the importance of education, affordability and job perspectives as selling points to win over the collegiate votes. So, this is definitely the year to pay attention to policy and the impact it will have on you.

So…

What's Going On?

The confirmed candidates:

Democratic Ticket – Hillary Clinton

Republican Ticket – Ted Cruz and Rand Paul

The notable possibilities:

Democratic Party – Martin O'Malley, Joe Biden, Jim Webb, and Lincoln Chafee

Republican Party – Jeb Bush, Chris Christie, Rick Perry, Rick Santorum, Mike Huckabee, Scott Walker, Marco Rubio, Carly Fiorina

The lists consist of some very predominant names; however, it is notable that there are some potential underdogs in this election. In 2008, Barack Obama came out as a dark horse once the election cycle hit and ended up winning, so anything could happen in 2016.

What to Expect? 
The anticipation and announcements of Hillary Clinton, Ted Cruz, and Rand Paul have all been social media driven. The “Ready for Hillary" Facebook page hit over 2,000,000 likes prior to her announcement of running. So, it is obvious that this year will be very social media and grassroots driven. Interaction will be at an all time high, primarily focused on getting younger voters to go out and vote (18-25).

Hillary's announcement video also featured what seemed to be a focus on younger generations, minorities, and women, while also touching on the subjects of gay marriage and small business. All of which will play major roles in the election. The challenge for Republican candidates will be matching the outreach and connecting with the modern social issues present in our country to remain competitive among younger voters.

Regardless of political affiliation, this will be an interesting election. I hope that you take it seriously and vote based on informed opinion as we get ready to face the rest of our collegiate lives.

UPDATE:

Within 24 hours of this article being written, Marco Rubio (GOP) confirmed his presidential bid through a strategic social media campaign. He is the youngest and only Latino-American candidate in the race. Rubio is favored by GOP moderates and is said to be on the same playing field for the GOP as President Obama was for the Democrats in 2008; however, Republicans used President Obama's lack of experience as a flaw in his campaign, which may be an issue for Rubio gaining early support.